Majority owner Farhad Moshiri has insisted that Everton are not for sale despite recent rumours of a possible takeover.
In an open letter to fans posted on the club's website, Mr Moshiri said "it will always be pragmatic to explore all potential investment opportunities" but that "there is no 'for sale' sign currently hanging outside Everton Football Club".
Rumours of an American-backed takeover have been around for weeks, with speculation Mr Moshiri may be keen to sell his stake in Everton after six and a half years.
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Mr Moshiri said: "There has been much talk of investment in our football club recently – even takeovers – but I want to clarify that there is no 'for sale' sign currently hanging outside Everton Football Club.
"It will always be pragmatic to explore all potential investment opportunities and, as I have been transparent about, I am focused on completing the financing for our fantastic new stadium as well as strengthening the playing squad and that might include a minority investment. That will continue.
"But I want to reassure all of you that Everton Football Club is not for sale.
"My commitment to the club remains strong and focused and Kevin Thelwell and the chairman are currently working hard to bring in new players to improve Frank Lampard’s squad.
"There will be new signings and I would ask supporters to judge us at the end of the transfer window – not now – and to listen to official club channels for information.
"The fact that we are an open and collaborative football club which listens to our supporters was underlined last week when we added another famous first to our long list of historic milestones when the inaugural Everton Fan Advisory Board met.
"Our CEO Denise Barrett-Baxendale, along with non-executive director Graeme Sharp and other senior club officials, welcomed the first fan-elected and independent advisory board of its kind in the top flight of English football to our Royal Liver Building headquarters.
"This occasion firmly underlines our ongoing commitment to engage with our supporters and, as we look to the 2022/23 season, we are committed to furthering that dialogue.
"Finally, I would like to thank you for your continued support."
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